The estimated number 1 pick of 2026 NHL draft is committed to Gavin McKaina, Pen State University, announced on Tuesday.
17 -year -old McCena is considered the highest profile recruitment in NCAA Hockey Hockey Hockey. He took his decision after traveling to Pen State and Michigan State in the last weekend.
“After two unforgettable sessions with Medicine Hat Tigers, I am very excited to continue my hockey career in Pen State.” “I think it’s the next step of my development to reach my ultimate goal of playing in NHL and I am excited to go to Happy Valley. I am very appreciated for all the support received so far, especially for my family who have been with me.”
NHL talent evaluator has long been projected to mold Mcken, a 6 -foot winger, a star – recently the number 1 pix conner bedded and McLin Sebrini. An NHL executive who has scouted a large scale to McCenna told ESPN that Winger’s skill set is similar to Patrick Kane, the player McCaina said he became idolatrous.
McCaina scored 129 points (41 goals, 88 aids) in 56 games-a 40-game streak for Medicine Hat Tigers in the last season-because he led his team since 2007 for his first WHL title and the Memorial Cup final against London Nights.
McCaina was the 2024 CHL Player of the Year, who became the third youngest player to win only the rear award. Sydney Crossbie And John Taores,
Whitehors, Yukon, a native of McKenna, TRʼondëk is a member of the Hwëʼin First Nation.
McCenna’s commitment is a seismic step for college hockey, and another indicator of a new long -term trend: The change in the November 1 allowed CHL players to first compete in the next season in NCAA. Earlier, CHL players were stopped due to NCAA’s amateur rules.
Pen State, which has been a division I program since the 2012-13 season, has been the biggest beneficiary ever. Nitney Lions also received a commitment from Jackson Smith, a native of Alberta, who was drafts in the first round of the 2025 NHL draft Columbus Blue Jacket18 -year -old Smith, Pen State’s first, first round became NHL draft pick.
According to sources, McKenna received a “extremely generous six figure” motion from Pen State as part of her recruitment, it is believed that college is considered the largest in hockey history.
Pen State is coming out of its prior four appearance, losing to Boston University. Nitney Lions claim top-end features and strong continuity; Guy Gadowski has been coach since its inaugural D1 season. Gadowski’s son, Mac is also transferring to Pen State in the next season, which is another coup. Mac Gadowski, a defenseman, was a hobby Baker finalist for the army last season. Calgary Flames Prospect Luke Misa also committed to Pen State for the next season.
